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The Selection Policy is part of the Rugby Services Agreement (RSA) between the WRU and the regions and is designed to maximise the number of home-grown professionals playing in Wales.

WRU Group Chief Executive Martyn Phillips said: “The RSA is the foundation of our professional game in that it is the basis on which we collaborate with the Regions to ensure we make decisions that are in the best interests of the game as a whole and for a broad range of stakeholders.

“We want to create the best environment possible for the players. Having our best players in Wales will help the Regions to be successful and their presence will inspire the next generation of supporters and players. We know that supporters want to see the best players playing on a regular basis.

“Players based in Wales will benefit as, together with the Regions, we can manage the players game time, development and welfare. We can work closely on player release and have our younger players learning from more experienced professionals. We know that coaches also value regular and easy access to players.

George North of Northampton scores a try against the Scarlets (Image: Huw Evans Picture Agency)

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“With three ‘wildcard’ selections available for each campaign during the 2016/17 season, decisions will have to be made on selection.

“Players have been aware that there would come a point, if they left or signed new contracts outside Wales, that the policy would impact on selection.

“We are aware that supporters may be concerned that we will not be selecting from a full list of players, but the alternative where players increasingly play outside Wales isn’t sustainable for the long-term success of our game whether that be professional or community rugby.

“Clearly the player ultimately has the choice, but we will do all we can to ensure that playing in Wales gives the player the best professional rugby experience possible.

Matthew Morgan has signed for Cardiff Blues

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“With the likes of Jonathan Davies, Bradley Davies, Matthew Morgan and Dan Lydiate returning to play their club rugby in Wales, and the likes of Alun Wyn Jones, Sam Warburton, Dan Biggar and Rhys Webb choosing to stay in the light of the policy, we believe this is a strategy that will promote the long term health of the game.”

In addition to Bath duo Faletau and Priestland, Harlequins centre Roberts and Northampton wing North, prop Thomas, scrum-half Williams and lock Day are captured in the wake of moves to Gloucester, Bristol and Japan respectively.

To be captured, players must have turned down an offer from Wales to sign for a club outside the country.

Both Charteris and North argued they weren’t captured on the basis there were no Welsh bids on the table, with the lock moving from Racing 92 to Bath and the wing re-signing with Northampton.

Charteris has clearly been successful in his appeal, while North has failed in his.